mind_factum

It takes ~30 kV per centimeter to strip electrons from nitrogen and oxygen molecules and push air into plasma state — the same state as lightning and stellar atmospheres. A Tesla coil generates high-frequency alternating voltage that continuously ionizes the air along the path of least resistance, producing the glowing arc to the needle. Arc channel temperatures can exceed 5,000°C. The current runs at such high frequency it travels along the skin's surface rather than through the body — which is why some people touch Tesla coil discharges and survive.
Side effect: the ionization produces ozone and nitrogen oxides. In a closed room, that builds up fast.
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